Brussels – A new report from Isopa and Alipa throws a spotlight on the socio-economic contribution the polyurethane industry makes to Europe’s economy. It was produced for the trade associations by Conversio Market & Strategy.
The report gives an in-depth analysis of the economic impact of, and the employment generated by, the industry. It also takes a look at the vital role the sector plays in multiple sectors. Importantly it also highlights the pressing need for future investment in the light of recent economic downturns.
The study focuses on the state of the industry from 2018 to 2023. The data show overall economic growth, but this does not fully reflect the effects of the economic crisis affecting the chemicals industry since 2022/23.
Its findings are based on market data, Eurostat statistics and interviews with industry experts, and reflect recent trends and challenges in the production and use of PU. It also stresses the industry’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and economic resilience.
According to the report, the European PU industry includes nearly 80,000 companies in the EU27, plus Switzerland, Norway, Türkiye and the UK. It generates €149bn/year. About 700,000 employees at these companies directly contribute to the production of PU and PU products. More than 1.7m additional companies in Europe work with these products. This generates another €84bn, and employs a further 6.5m people.
The industry’s CAGR of 4.2% since 2018 reinforces its role as a dynamic and expanding sector, the associations said. Flexible foam is the largest PU sector, accounting for a third of the total value created by the industry.
“The study underscores the polyurethane industry’s resilience and growth despite significant external challenges,” the organisations said. “But it also highlights the need to strengthen long-term competitiveness, as low growth rates, particularly in some sectors, reflect the economic difficulties the industry has faced in recent years.”
The report is available on the Isopa website.
